Note 1 at Acts 24:1: Tertullus was apparently a professional orator that the Jews employed to argue their case against Paul before Felix the governor. His name is Roman, therefore, some have thought that he was hired by the Jews because of His knowledge of the Roman legal system and his speaking ability only. Others have suggested that he was a convert to Judaism but it is doubtful that that would have impressed the Roman governor, Felix.

As most people who the world considers good speakers, this man was adapt at lies and flatteries to court the favor of those he was speaking to. He spoke of the "very worthy deeds" that Felix had done for the Jews which was certainly not true (see note 2 at Acts 23:24, p. ???).

In contrast, Paul specifically states that he didn't use "excellency of speech or wisdom" (1 Cor. 2:1) but he had God on his side. Paul prevailed in every encounter with his accusers.